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Showing posts from February, 2018

Black Panther Review

Certificate: 12A Running time: 134 minutes Directed by: Ryan Coogler. What's it about: After the death of  his father, the King of Wakanda, T'challa returns home to take his rightful place on the throne. However when a powerful enemy emerges to challenge T'challa, he is drawn into a conflict that puts the fate of Wakanda and the entire world at risk. The verdict: After his successful appearance in Captain America: Civil War, fans had high expectations for a Black Panther centric film. And I think it is safe to say that these expectations have been met. From its opening titles, Black Panther is highly engaging and visually brilliant. The plot is simple and the narrative is clear, meaning that Black Panther is easy to watch and to get involved in - it doesn't get bogged down in sub plots or caught up in furthering the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Black Panther concentrates on its characters and their much loved homeland of Wakanda. Because of this focus o...

The Shape of Water Review

Certificate: 15 Running time: 123 minutes  Directed by: Guillermo Del Toro. What’s it about: A shy, mute woman who works as a cleaning lady in a high security government facility develops a unique bond with a mysterious, amphibious creature that is being held in captivity, The verdict: The Shape of Water has swept awards season, winning a plethora of awards. It has also recently been nominated for thirteen Oscars. Suffice to say - it has been very well received by critics. But is The Shape of Water worthy of its massive recognition and praise? In short, I believe that it is. Director Guillermo Del Toro is well known for the detail that he puts into his fantasy worlds and seeing his version of an early 1960's America is a glorious thing in itself. There are the huge, shiny cars, the traditional diner selling quirky, lurid pies, and the beautiful, nostalgic cinema that Elisa lives above. But much like the mysterious creature that lurks beneath the wate...

Parker's Anchor Review

Running time: 110 minutes Directed by: Marc Hampson. What's it about: Grieving a great loss, Krystal Parker finds peace in reuniting with her childhood best friend. She builds strength in stepping out into the world and with the support of a small-town community, she finds love when she opens herself to new possibilities. The verdict: Protagonist Krystal Parker appears to have a perfect life - a successful and handsome husband and an exciting life in the big city. Yet appearances can be deceiving, and Krystal's seemingly perfect life comes tumbling down around her when she discovers that the one thing she has always dreamed of  may be beyond her reach. With her life now taking a completely different direction, Krystal moves back to the small-town of her childhood. This sets the framework for Parker's Anchor, which has a strong first act that will resonate with many audience members. In Krystal's sadness and loss, we are able to strongly emphasise with h...